Recently we got the new LYF smartphone to test the Jio 4G services. While using, we found out that the Jio SIM doesn’t work when there is no 4G network available. Since all voice calls are made through VoLTE, the 4G LTE network is required to seamlessly use the Jio digital services. As of now, not the whole country is covered by Jio network, and it is even worse in rural areas. To come across this problem, Jio is said to be in talks with BSNL for sharing 2G spectrum so that at least the Jio users can get connected even though there is no 4G LTE connectivity.

Anupam Shrivastava, Chairman and MD of BSNL confirmed that the 2G intra-circle roaming agreement with both Reliance Jio and Vodafone are said to be in final stage. Though there is no update about Vodafone, the Jio may ink the deal with BSNL in the next couple of weeks. With this agreement, Jio users can at least stay connected to the network even though there will be no VoLTE or 4G data speeds. In return, BSNL might get 4G service in the areas where BSNL doesn’t hold the 4G spectrum.

Jio is the only Indian service provider to offer voice calls through VoLTE and VoWiFi, which provides HD quality audio even in low signal areas. The device with 4G LTE connectivity also need to be VoLTE enabled to make calls. Reliance also launched a new smartphone brand called LYF which offers only 4G LTE supported devices. Recently, the company also launched three new VoLTE enabled smartphones Flame 3, Flame 4, and Flame 6. There are also the most affordable 4G devices priced at just Rs. 3,999.

As of now, Jio is offering its SIM for free along with every LYF smartphone and while the public launch can be only expected by the end of this year. With the trial run of jio 4G starting with Reliance employee’s, the average data consumption is around 18GB per month while the national average is just 150MB. We can expect that because of the free 4G data offered for the first three months, but even the rumored data plans are much cheaper than other networks. Though we can certainly see an increase in the average data consumption but will not as high as 18GB.